Stretching is very important for flexibility, range of motion and injury prevention. Incorporating stretching into your routine is just as important to health and body function as regular exercise. Stretching allows your body to properly cool down and it promotes many other benefits. Here are the top 6 benefits of stretching:
- Decreases Risk of Injury: Stretching helps to relax and loosen tight muscles. It also helps to supply nutrients to the muscles which will reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery from muscle and joint injuries. When our flexibility or range of motion is improved, it takes less energy for your body to make the same movement and our joint will also be more flexible, therefore reducing risk of injury during exercise or other activities.
- Enhances Energy Levels: When our muscles tighten (generally when we are stressed or tired) it can make us feel even more lethargic. Stretching can revitalise your energy levels, helping your mind and body be more alert and energised not only for everyday life but also in your workout. With stretching, you can delay the onset of muscle fatigue during your workout by ensuring oxygen is efficiently flowing through your blood which increases endurance and stamina.
- Promotes Blood Circulation: Stretching increases the blood flow to our muscles which not only speeds up our recovery time or reduces post-workout soreness but it will improve overall health by promoting cell growth and organ function. Also lowers heart rate and regulates blood pressure as our heart doesn't have to work so hard.
- Improves Posture: Particularly those who work an office job, you may find that you get lower back or hip pain. By stretching out the tight muscles that have been tense over long periods of time, it can ensure correct posture by lengthening these tight muscles that pull the areas of the body away from their intended position. Also improves spine alignment and relieves those aches and pains and therefore the desire to hunch over or slouch.
- Encourages Positivity: When we are stressed we tend to contract or tense our muscles which not only has a negative impact on our body but also our minds. Relaxing the muscles and increasing blood flow encourages the release of endorphins, providing us with a sense or tranquillity and calmness. Stretching right before bed will provide you with a more comfortable sleeping experience.
- Reduces Cholesterol: Engaging in prolonged stretching can help reduce cholesterol by preventing or even reversing the hardening of arteries and therefore reducing chances of heart disease.
Do you suffer from constant pain or reoccurring injuries or muscle tightness? If yes, it is time for you to start stretching regularly. Easy way to get started is to join our Revive stretch session on Wednesdays at 7pm.
